19/08/2025
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that cause progressive damage to the optic nerve. The optic nerve is a crucial part of the eye, as it transmits visual information from the retina to the brain. This damage can lead to irreversible vision loss and, in severe cases, blindness. The most common cause of optic nerve damage in glaucoma is increased pressure inside the eye, known as intraocular pressure (IOP). However, some people can develop glaucoma even with normal eye pressure.
CAUSES
The primary cause of glaucoma is often related to a buildup of fluid, called aqueous humor, inside the eye. Normally, this fluid drains through a network of tissues at the front of the eye called the trabecular meshwork. If this drainage system is blocked or doesn't function properly, the fluid accumulates, causing an increase in intraocular pressure. This increased pressure then pushes on and damages the optic nerve.
There are different types of glaucoma, each with slightly different causes:
OPEN-ANGLE GLAUCOMA: This is the most common type. The drainage angle of the eye remains open, but the drainage system itself doesn't work effectively, leading to a slow and gradual increase in eye pressure. The exact cause is often unknown, but it tends to be hereditary.
ANGLE-CLOSURE GLAUCOMA: This occurs when the iris (the colored part of the eye) bulges forward, partially or completely blocking the drainage angle. This can cause a sudden, severe increase in eye pressure, which is a medical emergency.
SECONDARY GLAUCOMA: This type is caused by a known factor, such as an eye injury, inflammation, certain medications (like corticosteroids), or other medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, eye tumors).
NORMAL-TENSION GLAUCOMA: In this form, optic nerve damage occurs despite normal eye pressure. The exact cause is not fully understood, but it may be related to a sensitive optic nerve or reduced blood flow to the nerve.
COMPLICATIONS
The main and most significant complication of glaucoma is irreversible vision loss, which can eventually lead to total blindness if left untreated. This is because the optic nerve damage is permanent and cannot be reversed. The vision loss typically begins with a slow loss of peripheral (side) vision, often referred to as "tunnel vision." As the condition progresses, central vision is also affected, leading to severe impairment.
OTHER COMPLICATIONS CAN INCLUDE:
Psychological distress, such as anxiety and depression, due to the fear of vision loss.
Reduced quality of life and difficulty with daily activities like driving and reading.
PREVENTION
While there is no way to prevent the development of glaucoma itself, vision loss from the disease can be prevented through early detection and consistent management. The best way to "prevent" vision loss is to be proactive about your eye health.
KEY PREVENTION STRATEGIES INCLUDE:
Regular Comprehensive Eye Exams: This is the most crucial step. Since open-angle glaucoma often has no early symptoms, a comprehensive eye exam can detect the condition before significant damage occurs. An eye doctor can check your intraocular pressure, inspect your optic nerve, and test your peripheral vision. The recommended frequency for exams varies based on age and risk factors.
Know Your Family History: Glaucoma tends to run in families. If you have a close relative with the condition, you are at a higher risk and should get screened more frequently.
Protect Your Eyes from Injury: Eye injuries can lead to traumatic glaucoma. Always wear protective eyewear during sports, home repairs, or any activities that could cause harm to your eyes.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: A balanced diet rich in leafy green vegetables, exercise, and managing other health conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure can help support overall eye health and reduce some risk factors.
MANAGEMENT
Glaucoma management focuses on lowering intraocular pressure to a level that prevents further damage to the optic nerve. The treatment approach depends on the type and severity of the glaucoma.
Common management and treatment options include:
Medicated Eye Drops: These are often the first line of treatment. The drops work by either helping the eye's fluid drain better or reducing the amount of fluid the eye produces. Consistency is key, and the drops must be taken daily as prescribed.
Oral Medications: In some cases, pills may be prescribed to further lower eye pressure.
Laser Treatment: An opthalmologist can use a laser to improve the drainage of fluid from the eye. This procedure is performed in the doctor's office.
Surgery: If medications and laser treatment are not effective, an opthalmologist may recommend surgery. Traditional surgeries, like a trabeculectomy, create a new drainage channel for the fluid. There are also newer, minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries (MIGS) that may be an option.
Ongoing Monitoring: Glaucoma is a lifelong disease that requires continuous monitoring. Regular follow-up appointments with an eye care professional are essential to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and make adjustments as needed.
Protect your vision now — your future self will thank you!
